certain external compounds such as drugs, is that the artificial environments they are conducted in are not necessarily reflective of the real-life conditions.

Here at Epigem our work with microfluidics sets out to overcome this hurdle by producing more natural testing environments. We have built up a strong reputation as a world-wide player in the polymer microfluidic chip industry and, in addition, our micro gasket concept has become a very popular one in the field of analytical R&D.

of facilitating the production of microfluidic subsystems. It does so by bonding one component, for example a sensor, to the surface of a chip via a temporary compression seal around the edge of the fluid channel.

The popularity of this concept stems from the ease-of-use as well as its reusability for researchers and, as

the device can be opened and closed easily and quickly when required, it is simple to clean and re-load etc.

What Can it Achieve?

The micro gasket concept makes it possible to create semi-real-life conditions, such as imitating blood vessels, in which researchers can accurately study cell behaviour.

These reliable and easy-to-assess hybrid devices can also be used for sealing a component such as a silicon sensor die to the side of a cell. In addition, if sensing electrodes are required in the microfluidic device, then we can provide these in the lid or base. By embedding the electrodes into the surface of the chip, the micro-gasket can still make a fluid-tight seal on top.

To find out more about our work with microfluidics and the services we can offer get in touch with our expert team on 01642 496 300.